2010-11 NHL Preseason Predictions: Central Division

I continue the series predicting and previewing each division with the one that has produced the last three Western Conference champions, the Central.

Detroit Red Wings

Keeping the roster intact was key, because the Red Wings have young enough talent to continue their winning ways—with enough gas left in the tank for veterans like Niklas Lidstrom to provide guidance and leadership.

The wild card is whether Jimmy Howard will be able to duplicate his Calder Trophy finalist success, and given his age (which meant he was a more known quantity than many rookie goalies), along with how hard he had to work to make it, odds are in his favour.

Chicago Blackhawks

Attrition of this roster was too much, as eight players whose names were etched on the Stanley Cup are no longer with the team.

However, it is important to keep in mind that while the loss of Dustin Byfuglien will hurt, it is not debilitating; while the loss of Andrew Ladd may sting, he played on the third line; and while the team will suffer from Annti Niemi's departure, there is at least a slim chance that Marty Turco is still good enough to fill that void.

St. Louis Blues

The signing of Jaroslav Halak gives this squad the backstop they have been missing for years.

Put a young developing team in front of him with talent among not just their forwards but their defense, and this team will make the playoffs this season.

Nashville Predators

No matter how good Barry Trotz coaches, there are too many good teams in this league for one with so little star power to get into the playoffs.

They now have just one outstanding goalie and only an above average blueline to support a forward unit full of role players.

Columbus Blue Jackets

The Jackets playoff appearance in 2009 was a fluke, occurring because the scouting report on Steve Mason had not been developed.

This is not to say he is not a good enough goalie to win playoff games—just not good enough to do it with so little skating talent in front of him.

The Jackets have two good lines but neither is great, and only one stud to defend in a conference with so many great defenders—something that Columbus cannot say.